Visma-Lease Bike Theft Hits €250,000 at Vuelta a España

Visma-Lease a Bike suffered a significant theft during the Vuelta a España, with thieves breaking into their mechanics’ truck overnight near Turin and stealing up to 18 of the team's Cervélo bikes, valued at approximately €250,000. Despite the loss, the team is working hard to prepare for stage three of the race, which is a 134.6 km route in Italy, and police have launched an investigation into the incident. This robbery follows a similar theft at the Tour de France earlier in the year, highlighting ongoing security concerns for WorldTour teams at major races. The theft comes shortly after Jonas Vingegaard's stage two victory and acquisition of the red leader's jersey, though the team also faced a setback with sprinter Axel Zingle forced to withdraw due to injuries from a crash. The team may need to borrow equipment to continue competing, but the proximity of the stage start to their base in Turin offers some logistical relief. Visma-Lease a Bike continues to manage the situation under challenging circumstances while maintaining their lead in the Vuelta.